Thoughts about the MCAT

How important are the MCATs?
A medical school admissions dean answered in this way: "... the MCAT is important -- in context, though... It does not project who will be a good physician and so, we try to balance the whole picture: academic performance (which includes # of credits per semester and type of courses taken), MCAT scores, family background (educational and economic -- need to work while in college and/or obstacles overcome, distance traveled), leadership roles, extent and depth of involvement in clinical/ extracurricular activities/ community service/ research, the personal statement and, last but not least, what ... evaluators tell us about the applicant. "

Jeff and I have found that a high MCAT score will not overcome poor grades, minimal clinical experience, poor personal statement, etc. We have also noticed that med schools respond negatively to students who take only three courses the semester they take the MCAT. Because the admissions office reviews your transcripts carefully, they will be concerned if your abilty to score high on the MCAT was due to taking only three courses. However, many students do take a fourth course pass/fail that semester, which is fine.

Should I take Kaplan or Princeton Review or Examcrackers to prepare for the MCAT?
We don't endorse any particular course, especially as they can be incredibly expensive! The MCAT consists of hard questions on basic material. Many students study on their own, or with friends, by using online material, review books, etc. The best way to prepare is preparing is to take as many practice tests as possible, in a setting similar to the real test (with timed breaks, etc.) Whatever way you prepare, we suggest you make sure to check the official MCAT website for access to full-length MCAT practice tests composed of previously administered MCAT items.


How long will my MCAT score last?
Recently, some students have asked whether they can take their MCATs the summer after sophomore year even though they do not plan to go to med school until a few years after graduation. Alumni have contacted us asking if their MCAT "is still good". Unfortunately, despite the fact that med schools like applicants who have taken time off post college, many of these med schools also require that your MCATs be taken within three years of application. You will find that med schools really do vary in their policy regarding when MCAT scores expire. The Medical School Admissions Requirements book, published by the AAMC, lists the oldest MCAT considered for each medical school. (You can find a copy in the OCS library). For example, Harvard Medical School would accept an applicant who took her MCAT in 2007, and then applies in 2010 to enter in 2011. However, Dartmouth probably would not.

It would be a lot easier if the policy was more consistent and if schools would allow the MCATs to last at least four years. But, until that happens, we suggest that you keep your options open by taking your MCAT closer to the time of your application.